A Bunbury massage therapist, Anthony Brain, is facing trial in Perth, accused of sexually assaulting multiple female clients under the guise of therapeutic treatment. The District Court heard that Brain, 39, allegedly committed 36 sexual offences involving 18 women, primarily at the Nomadic Masseur clinic in central Bunbury.
The allegations include claims that Brain touched clients’ breasts and sexually penetrated them without consent, actions he allegedly justified by claiming they would relieve tension. The trial, which began this week, has already revealed disturbing details of the alleged assaults.
Prosecutor’s Claims and Client Testimonies
Prosecutor Alan Dungey outlined the accusations, stating that Brain would tell clients he needed to work on their breasts or groin area, but his actions were “more intimate than what they had in mind.” Some women reportedly signed consent forms that supposedly allowed him to touch these areas, but Dungey argued that Brain “went outside and beyond the scope” of accepted industry practices.
“None of the vaginal or anal penetrations were done for proper medical purposes,” Dungey said. “What he was up to was pleasure, not business. His own pleasure.”
The court heard that Brain did not operate a stereotypical “back alley” business. His clinic was located next to a chiropractor’s office, with diplomas and certificates prominently displayed inside. However, the professional appearance allegedly masked the inappropriate conduct that took place behind closed doors.
Details of Alleged Assaults
The police investigation began in October 2023 after a woman reported that Brain had sexually penetrated her during a session intended for a neck and shoulder massage. She claimed he advised her to masturbate in front of him “to help the process,” and also forced her to perform oral sex. The experience left her so traumatized that she reportedly hit the kerb while driving home and showered repeatedly upon arrival.
Another complainant, a woman in a wheelchair seeking treatment for shoulder and leg pain, testified that Brain made her undress completely, citing his past life in a French nudist colony to justify his actions. He allegedly described his lifestyle as “liberated” and recounted experiences of public sexual activities at the colony.
Dungey described the victim as “petrified,” unable to get back into her wheelchair without assistance.
Pattern of Behavior and Additional Allegations
As the trial progresses, more alleged victims have come forward, bringing the total to 18. Brain reportedly shared stories of his time in a French nudist colony and expressed interest in opening a brothel. He allegedly told one client about being banned from an art class for drawing an “unusually large penis” and claimed to be “high functioning” with autism, suggesting he could perceive things others could not.
Brain also proposed a “new method” of massage to one woman, which involved both parties being naked to “bond better.” His lawyer has yet to present an opening address, but Brain has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which include sexual penetration without consent, unlawful and indecent assault, and aggravated indecent assault. The alleged offences span from 2020 to 2023.
Implications and Next Steps
This case highlights the crucial importance of maintaining professional boundaries in therapeutic settings and the need for stringent regulations to protect clients. As the trial continues, the court will hear from more witnesses and consider the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense.
The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for the massage therapy industry, potentially prompting reviews of consent protocols and professional standards. It also underscores the importance of reporting and investigating allegations of sexual misconduct promptly and thoroughly.
As the proceedings unfold, the community and industry stakeholders will be watching closely, anticipating the court’s verdict and any subsequent actions that may arise from this high-profile case.
